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Planning Your Trip
From sun-drenched tropical beaches and myriad ornate Balinese temples to lavish restaurants and bars and streets lined with boutiques and galleries, there’s so much to do during your stay on the Island of the Gods. Here are some tips on what to bring, reserve, and do, so you can make the most of your time in Bali.
If visiting the Monkey Forest, bring a satchel to keep small belongings like sunglasses or jewelry stowed away — the monkeys are known to snatch visitors’ accessories.
Beach Vacation
Bali's beaches and resorts are havens for sun worshippers. Bring along a few essentials for a perfect day at the beach.
- Be sure to bring appropriate sunscreen and after-sun moisturizers to keep your skin protected from the sun’s strong rays.
- Swimwear, pool wraps, beach shoes, sandals, sunglasses and sun hats are all essential. Don’t forget something light to cover up with when you need a sun break.
- For kids, extra protection is recommended in the form of ultra-high UV protection creams and swimsuits with a high UV protection factor.
Cultural Considerations
Bali has a unique and welcoming culture. Experience it firsthand with unique activities like Soul Purification rituals on the beach, traditional dance performances and temple visits.
- For day trips, casual clothes like shorts and t-shirts are typically welcome, but the location and activity will dictate what is acceptable, so bring a few more modest options as well.
- For on-site cultural activities the organizer will ensure you have the appropriate attire, so dress in comfortable clothes that can be layered upon.
- Most of the larger temples provide a sarong and sash for visitors to use, but it is considerate to dress modestly if you know you'll be visiting a temple.
Resort Essentials
The Ritz-Carlton, Bali is a 5-star luxury beachside resort that is both family friendly and ideal for romantic getaways, weddings and honeymoons. It offers a combination of open spaces, tropical landscape and stunning architecture.
- The general dress code for lounging around the resort is casual, so pack your shorts, light shirts and breezy dresses.
- Some of the onsite restaurants have a relaxed dress code, while for others smart casual or resort chic wear is appropriate. Be sure to bring a few elevated options for the fine dining experiences.
- Swimwear is not permitted in our restaurants, so bring along a stylish cover-up to go seamlessly from the beach to lunch al fresco.
A family friendly resort with a beautiful beachfront setting, The Ritz-Carlton, Bali, is home to some of the island’s most impressive dining and one of Bali’s most luxurious spas, making it a perfect home base for exploring the very best the island has to offer. Here’s what to book in advance so you don’t miss out.
Reserve an indulgent spa treatment. Bali is renowned for its world-class spas and here at our beachfront resort, The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Bali offers signature services inspired by the ocean and its treasures. Available treatments include massage, body wraps, soaking rituals, facials, romantic couple's treatments, and parent and child sessions. Be sure to add on a hydro treatment, which utilizes the power of water for wellness and relaxation.
Bali has so many options for dining out, whether you’re enjoying a romantic meal by the beach, a festive fete on the hill with spectacular views, or a unique meal overlooking the rice fields. For a truly memorable experience, reserve a private romantic dinner for two by the Indian Ocean at The Ritz-Carlton, Bali. Dine under a tropical night sky filled with stars, accompanied by a gentle breeze and sounds of the ocean.
Reserve your child’s spot at Ritz Kids, our fun and educational kids club. With activities suitable for toddlers up to young teens, a dedicated kids pool, outdoor play area and programs that include sea turtle preservation, making kites, cooking with the resort's chef, learning Balinese crafts, to night safaris in your room, your kids can have a blast while playing and learning about the world around them. It’s just one of the things that makes The Ritz-Carlton, Bali a great choice for family vacations.
With so much to see in Bali, day trip options are seemingly endless. Whether you’re looking for something family friendly, romantic or cultural and educational, the concierge at The Ritz-Carlton, Bali will be happy to help you plan the perfect getaway. One of the most popular destinations is the renowned Uluwatu Temple. Just a short drive away, it’s a stunning sight that also plays host to the Balinese Kecak Dance at sundown every day.
Bali is synonymous with natural beauty, from lush jungles to crashing waves to pristine beaches. Cultural wonders abound with temples dotting the countryside and museums clustered in the cities. Traditional agricultural innovations like rice terraces continue to be actively used, making visits to them both instructive and scenic. The cuisine wows with native Balinese and Indonesian cooking mixed with unlikely additions from all over the world (pizza, for example). While you can spend your time in Bali being actively adventurous, don’t forget to make time for simply being in your surroundings to absorb their splendor.
Family Vacation Fun
Bali is a wondrous location for a family trip, exposing children and adults alike to a singular culture, spectacular nature and delicious cuisines. The proximity to wildlife is one of the unique highlights of visiting Bali, along with ample time to relax and explore their surroundings. Get ready to explore from beaches to mountains with jungles and forests in between.
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Morning
Beach Time at Geger Beach. Start your day with a peaceful morning at Geger Beach, famous for its soft white sand and clear turquoise waters. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the beach or rent a sunbed to relax. If you're feeling adventurous, consider trying out some water sports like snorkeling or paddle boarding. The calm waters make it a perfect spot for swimming, and the surrounding cliffs provide a stunning backdrop.
Midday
Visit the Bali Collection. After soaking up the sun, head to the Bali Collection, a shopping and dining complex. Here, you can browse through a variety of shops selling local handicrafts, clothing, and souvenirs. Take a break at one of the many cafes or restaurants and enjoy a delicious lunch featuring traditional Balinese cuisine or international favorites. Don't forget to try some local dishes like Nasi Goreng or Sate Lilit.
Afternoon
Pool Time. Relax after an active day with time at one of the pools at The Ritz-Carlton, Bali. You can head for the kids’ pool with water slides or for the main pool with its panoramic view of the ocean and umbrellas for shade. Order a frosty beverage and wait for the hourly poolside service of refreshments.
Evening
The Beach Grill. Enjoy food as good as the view at The Beach Grill. Enjoy the relaxed ambience of the restaurant as you overlook the Indian Ocean and enjoy freshly caught seafood and grilled specialties. And make sure to order a glass of the signature house sangria, available in white or red versions.
Morning
Sunrise Yoga Session. Start your day with a rejuvenating yoga session on the beach. Many resorts in Nusa Dua offer morning yoga classes with stunning views of the ocean. The gentle sound of the waves and the soft morning breeze create a serene environment perfect for meditation and stretching. This activity will not only help you relax but also energize you for the day ahead.
Midday
Sculptures in the Wild. Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park is the ultimate in child-friendly art viewing with large-scale sculptures scattered throughout an expansive setting. There are dance and theater performances on-site hourly, so check the schedule when you arrive to see what’s on that day.
Afternoon
Photo Shoot. It’s always a challenge to get a great family photo on vacation, but what better time is there to get that holiday card shot? Take advantage of a complimentary guest photo shoot at The Ritz-Carlton, Bali, and get hard or digital copies of photographs of everyone or just the kids at the resort.
Evening
Sunset Dinner at Jimbaran Bay. As the day winds down, take a short drive to Jimbaran Bay for a romantic sunset dinner on the beach. There are numerous seafood restaurants lining the shore where you can enjoy a fresh seafood barbecue while watching the sun dip below the horizon. The atmosphere is magical, with the sound of waves and the scent of grilled fish in the air. Consider trying a traditional Indonesian seafood feast, complete with grilled prawns, fish, and local vegetables.
Morning
Breakfast at Senses. Get off on the right foot with a filling breakfast at Senses. The little ones can find favorites like eggs and Belgian waffles, and adults can pick from healthy or indulgent options. Or if you are ready to embrace your time in Bali fully, try a regional specialty like chicken rice congee.
Midday
Camel Safari. Take in the stunning white-sand beaches along the southern coastline of Nusa Dua from your perch on top of a camel! The Bali Camel Safari is the only one on the island, and the steady pace of the animals makes it fun for all ages. Travel guides will accompany you on your beach tour, even holding the reins of the camels to make sure you’re moving at a safe pace. Don’t forget to bring your camera and sunblock.
Afternoon
Spa Time. While the kids are off learning to fish or splashing around in the pool, you can make your way to the spa for one of the nine unique treatment rooms or four treatment villas, if you prefer a combined couple’s treatment.
Evening
Night Safari. You’ve already ridden the camels, and now your children can feel as if they are continuing on safari with this special Ritz Kids package. They are set up in the room with a tent, flashlight, compass, lion toy and more to create the feeling of a full-blown campout. While is this aimed at kids 4–8 years old, children younger than 4 can participate and will get their own special takeaways.
Morning
Mount Batur. While pre-sunrise hikes are popular on this tall peak, we suggest letting the kids sleep a full night and starting up in the early morning. Take the walk slowly with breaks and snacks. At the top, you will be rewarded with spectacular views. There is also a good stopping point most of the way up that avoids the final sandy walk to the peak, which might be more manageable with kids. And remember, it’s a lot easier on the way back down! It is a two hour-plus drive each way, but you’ll see a tremendous amount of the countryside as a bonus to the trip.
Midday
Monkey Forest. Children of all ages will be transported by the Monkey Forest, where 600 monkeys roam free in over 100 species of trees. You can feed the monkeys bananas that you purchase on-site, but be careful not to bring other snacks into the park as they might try to find them on you. Walk through the 25 acres of conservation land for a fully immersive experience.
Afternoon
Explore Ubud Art Market. Spend some time shopping at the Ubud Art Market, where you can find handcrafted souvenirs, textiles, and local artwork. Bargain with local artisans to take home a piece of Ubud's vibrant culture. This is also a great opportunity to support local businesses.
Evening
Traditional Balinese Dance Performance. Conclude your day with a traditional Balinese dance performance. The Ubud Palace often hosts these performances in the evening, showcasing beautiful costumes, intricate storytelling, and the rich cultural heritage of Bali. The Kecak or Legong dance is particularly mesmerizing and a must-see.
Morning
Surfing Lesson. Kuta Beach is famous for its surf-friendly waves. Book a surfing lesson with a local instructor. Whether you’re a beginner or have some experience, there are options for all skill levels. Enjoy the thrill of catching your first wave!
Midday
Explore Beachwalk Shopping Center. After your surfing session, take a stroll to the Beachwalk Shopping Center, which is a short distance from Kuta Beach. This open-air mall features a mix of international and local brands, as well as restaurants and cafes.
Afternoon
Spend your afternoon at Waterbom Bali. one of Asia’s best water parks. Enjoy thrilling water slides, lazy rivers, and relaxing pools. It’s a fantastic way to cool off from the Bali heat and have some fun.
Evening
Nightlife Experience. End your day by experiencing Seminyak’s vibrant nightlife. Visit popular spots like La Favela, Shi Shi or Motel Mexicola for dancing and live music. Enjoy the lively atmosphere, meet fellow travelers, and dance the night away.
A Romantic Getaway
Sultry breezes off the clear turquoise waters carrying the scent of lush frangipani — the scene is always set for romance in Bali. From exploring cultural treasures together to being awed by nature, so many activities are perfect for a couple’s vacation. And sometimes, the best time is spent together in peace and quiet, knowing you are in a uniquely beautiful place you’ll never forget having visited. Time to toast to a weekend well spent!
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Morning
Sun Salutation. Start your morning off with one of the daily yoga classes offered to guests at The Ritz-Carlton, Bali. Yoga and meditation are important components to the lifestyle of Bali, and you’ll connect to the omnipresence of ceremony in the culture as you work through your own yoga practice.
Midday
Pura Geger. This quiet and ancient temple is only open to worshippers, but the beautiful carved architecture of the building exteriors and its prominent place on the headland above the white sands of Geger Beach still make it worth a visit.
Water Blow. Imagine being surrounded by water in a 240-degree view as it rushes up from the ocean, breaking over the tops of cliffs. The dramatic views (and splashing) of the ocean waves up to Water Blow make this an adventurous stop, especially for those bringing along a waterproof camera to capture the spectacular crashing of the waves.
Afternoon
Eat, Dring, Rest. Sea Circus brings a dash of wit and a splash of high style to Seminyak, the chic Southern city. Order multiple small plates to share, go healthy with a bowl or dig into the options on the taco bar menu.
Shopping in Seminyak. Seminyak has a mix of designer boutiques and local artisanal shops, so you can choose the perfect mementos from the trip. Get richly colored garments at Paul Ropp, on-trend accessories at Le Petit Cartel or delicate lace from Uluwatu. If you’re looking for something more substantial to remember the trip by, stop into John Hardy, who produces his fine jewelry line near Ubud.
Evening
Romantic Dinner. Watch the sun set over the open lounge at Métis, as you sip cocktails before settling into a multi-course dinner. For a decadently delicious dinner, order from the foie gras menu, including specialties like the Trilogy of Foie Gras.
Morning
Take a Swim. The pool at The Ritz-Carlton, Bali faces the ocean, so you can watch the sun rise over the deep turquoise water while you splash around. Start your morning with tranquil laps or just soaking in the water, and the atmosphere, together.
Midday
Uluwatu Temple. Pura Luhur Uluwatu is perched high above the sea on a 250-foot cliff. Considered to be one of six temples that make up Bali’s spiritual pillars, this temple is equally renowned for its spectacular view as it is for its sacred qualities. Stay at the temple later in the day and watch the sun set over the ocean behind, or visit midday for the cooling breezes that come off the water through the temple complex. Enter through a small forest filled with hundreds of monkeys, which are believed to be the protectors of the temple itself.
Afternoon
Surf Spot. Green Bowl beach is notable for the cliffs protecting the secluded beach and the quality of the waves, attracting a loyal surfer community. If you don’t want to do the 300-plus steps down to the beach (and back up), settle in at a warun at the top for a cool drink and gorgeous views.
Evening
Dinner on the Sand. Dinner for two in a secluded setting by the beach — what could be more romantic? With dedicated service, a bouquet of red roses and a bottle of wine from The Ritz-Carlton, Bali cellar, the resort sets up a perfect evening for you, complete with a specially designed menu. Choose from delicacies like Wagyu steak, slow-cooked salmon or lobster linguine along with a champagne toast to your wonderful weekend in Bali.
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